BUILDING (DanceVisions 2024)

Building is a dance performance that delves into the correspondence between constructing human identity and physical structures. Through choreographed movements and imagery, the dancers explore the interplay between the subconscious and the infrastructure of the mind, drawing parallels to the foundation of a building. Themes of resilience and transformation emerge as the performance navigates the challenges of personal growth and architectural creation, prompting the audience to contemplate the interconnectedness of human existence and the built environment. Accompanied by a poignant score, Building offers viewers a thoughtful reflection on inner struggles and external manifestations, all presented in unconventional and innovative ways that leave a lingering impression of curiosity, hope, and beauty.

Choreographer: Meredith Rainey

Performers: Meredith Rainey, Chandra Mos-Thorne, Andie Yorita, Brandi Pinnix, Mikal Gilbert, Marco Emilio Bonnes Gavillan

Music: Majesty Royale

Meredith Rainey

Picture this: 15-year-old, African American teenager living in Fort Lauderdale with my single mother, sister and, on occasion, my brothers. Having the fortunate experience of witnessing my girlfriend dance. She was rehearsing a solo that she would be performing to audition for aposition in the Dillard School of the Performing Arts. Now, not knowing anything about dance I said to her after she finished dancing, “That was really nice.” She then asked if I had any suggestions I then said (with great hubris), “Well, you know when that high note in the music came, maybe you should have kicked instead of going to the floor.” This was my first choreographic act. Soon after this episode I applied for Dillard School of the Performing Arts myself, after some persuasion from my girlfriend and my guidance counselor. I got in and took ballet, Graham technique and jazz, as well as the other mandatory courses. Every class was a new and exciting challenge. I felt a new found energy and possibility with every new step. At the top was ballet. I was really drawn to the rigor, discipline and the dedication to constant improvement. Needless to say, the ballet stuck.

About DanceVisions

The Performance Garage provides the DanceVisions Resident Artist with mentorship, marketing, publicity, box office, and a $10,000 stipend. Included in their support is video documentation, photography, and light design for their three-performance season when they premiere their new residency choreography.

Host or Publisher Performance Garage